Multi-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torso garment

ABSTRACT

A multi-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torso garment, such as bras, bathing suits, bikini tops, halters, strapless dresses, dresses with thin straps, strapless tops, tops with thin straps, and the like. A pair of primary clasps are replaceably attached to a pair of terminal ends of the chain, respectively, and when in place, attach the chain to the upper torso garment without piercing/puncturing or otherwise damaging the upper torso garment. At least one pair of secondary clasps replaceably attach the pair of primary clasps to the pair of terminal ends of the chain, respectively, when used, and further replaceably attach a plurality of chain lengths and to each other end-to-end, respectively, so as to allow at least one chain length to be removed and form at least one removed chain length for length adjustment of the chain for use with different upper torso garments or by different people, which eliminates excess chain from having to overlap or be concealed between the upper torso garment and the body of the person which causes discomfort to the person, and with the at least one removed chain length being utilized as other chain jewelry, such as necklaces, bracelets, ankle bracelets, and the like.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates to a multi-function jewelry chain.More particularly, the present invention relates to a multi-functionjewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torso garment.

[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art

[0004] Jewelry has been used previously to support women's garments. Forexample, as early as 1924, chains made of precious metal, pearls, beadsor ribbons have been used for supporting garments. Since differentgarments may be cut differently, and people are different sizes, thereis a need to adjust a garment support. The 1924 version utilizes ahighly visible mechanism wherein each length of support is overlappedupon itself and adjusted in order to obtain the desired length.

[0005] Other previously known supports were often not adjustable or werenot interchangeable between garments. For example, one previously knowngarment support comprises a length of shiny chain links. The frontsection of each bra support is sewn to the bra at the uppermost portionof each cup. Two separate rear links are also sewn to the back of thebra at intermediate positions. Attached to the terminal end of the rearchain lengths are fasteners designed to releasably connect with anintermediate portion of the longer length of (front) chain links. Thisarrangement, however, results in excess chain links dangling visibly onthe back of the person utilizing this garment support and is also notreadily interchangeable between garments since it is sewn to the bra atfour separate points.

[0006] It is most desirable, therefore, to provide a garment supportwhich is readily interchangeable between garments. While some of thegarment supports of the prior art are interchangeable, safety pins areutilized which can readily tear or damage a garment. Furthermore, theirentire adjustment mechanism is also visible.

[0007] Consequently, there is a need for a garment support, particularlyuseful for women's upper garments such as bras, dresses, halters, andthe like which do not have over-the-shoulder or around-the-neck supportsfor holding the garment at the desired height. It would further bedesirable to provide attractive, ornamental jewelry-type garmentsupports which do not require overlap of each length of the garmentsupport in order to provide desired adjustability and which are readilyinterchangeable between different garments without requiring sewing orotherwise puncturing the garment and which do not cause discomfort tothe wearer.

[0008] Numerous other innovations for jewelry chains have been providedin the prior art that will be discussed infra. Even though these otherinnovations may be suitable for the specific individual purposes towhich they address, they each differ in structure and/or operationand/or purpose from the present invention.

[0009] FOR EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. Des. 296,997 to Dobson teaches theornamental design for a combined jewelry chain and length adjuster orsimilar article.

[0010] ANOTHER EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 4,400,932 to Epstein teaches ajewelry link in the form of an elongated loop capable of holding anddisplaying a number of precious stones and the like. The link has aclosed U-shaped ring at one end and a corresponding hole at the otherend, so that the ring of one link may be inserted into the hole of anadjacent link. Each link has a deformable hook secured adjacent to thering-receiving hole, so that when the U-shaped ring of an adjacent linkis inserted in the hole, the two links can be locked together bypressing the deformable hook so that it interlocks with the insertedring. By this means links can be added to a bracelet or necklace as thewearer is able to purchase them, and in similar fashion additionalprecious stones can be added to each link as desired.

[0011] STILL ANOTHER EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 4,651,541 to Farley teachesa jewelry chain separator comprising an elongated rod-like body havingopposite end enlargements thereon. At least one additional enlargementis carried by the body spaced equally between the opposite endenlargements and the rod-like body is substantially cylindrical in shapewhile the enlargements are spherical in shape.

[0012] YET ANOTHER EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 4,815,180 to Elsener teaches atransferable jewelry clasp that can be worn with different chains orbands which has the shape of a ring or has a central opening and has anupper part and a lower part. These parts are connected with one anotheron one side by means of a hinge, and on the opposite side by means of asnap clasp. It can thus be opened and closed easily. In order to ensurethat the jewelry clasp is not lost, two cams directed inwardly towardthe central opening are attached to the upper part. Eyelets are attachedto the ends of the chain, which are so dimensioned that their internaldiameters are larger than the thickness of the jewelry clasp ring andsmaller than the thickness of the ring plus the height of the cam. Withsuch dimensioning, the chain and eyelets can only be attached to aposition differing from the supporting direction on the upper clasppart, and the danger of loss is avoided, even if the jewelry clasp isopened involuntarily.

[0013] STILL YET ANOTHER EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,158,206 to Rosenwasseret al. teaches a double helix jewelry chain that is constructed from aseries of interconnected chain links. Each link is formed with an openmouth defined between a pair of end faces. The end faces are alignedwith one another in various predetermined geometrical and dimensionalrelationships in order to maintain a minimum projected gap or clearanceopening equal to or less than the major dimension of an elongated crosssection of each link.

[0014] YET STILL ANOTHER EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,209,306 to Chia et al.teaches a decorative rope chain and a manufacturing process to produce arope chain in which each link used as a basic building element exhibitsa unique visual property, such as surface texture, coloration,attribute, feature, characteristic, shape or other physical appearance.Such unique visual property traits for the succession of links resultsin a more attractive, fanciful, more delicate and interesting fashionitem. In one aspect of the invention, each of the interconnected linkshas a first side surface exhibiting a first visual property and anopposite second side surface exhibiting a second, perceptivelydifferent, visual property. In other aspects of the invention, the sidesurfaces of the links may have differently colored, textured, orpatterned surface portions. In yet another aspect of the invention, eachlink may have differently shaped portions.

[0015] STILL YET ANOTHER EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,250,107 to Visserteaches an expandable chain construction that comprises first and secondchain lengths of a monofilament such as nylon fishing line. Each chainlength is formed into a series of spaced loops, the loops of the twolengths being of opposite senses. Each loop of each length encircles aportion of the other length lying between a pair of loops. Chainconstructions may be interconnected along their lengths to form chainsof increased width. The chain constructions are expandable to fitclosely but gently about a wearer's limb. The construction can simulatethe appearance of tattoo designs.

[0016] YET STILL ANOTHER EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,263,658 to Rosenwasseret al. teaches a jewelry rope chain formed of a plurality ofinterconnected links. Each of the links has an exterior surface and theplurality of the links form the periphery of the chain. The exteriorsurface of the adjacent links of a pair of opposing groups of such linkscomprise a diamond cut curved surface. This forms opposing arcuatesurfaces on the periphery of the chain. The exterior of the remainingopposing links intermediate of these two groups are uncut. As a result,the periphery of the chain is generally a slight oval in cross sectionalconfiguration.

[0017] STILL YET ANOTHER EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,279,171 to Brancato,who is also the inventor in the present application, teaches ornamentaljewelry supports for garments, particularly for upper torso garmentsworn by women such as bras, bikini tops, halters, strapless dresses, andthe like. The garment supports are adjustable along their length withadjusting mechanisms that do not result in unsightly overlap of theornamental lengths of jewelry of the present garment supports, but do,however, require positioning of unused lengths between the garment andthe wearer causing discomfort to the wearer and mar the overallappearance of the garment. The adjustable ornamental garment supportscan be readily moved from one garment to another and do not requirepuncturing the garment.

[0018] YET STILL ANOTHER EXAMPLE, U.S. Pat. No. 6,339,922 to Fosterteaches an improved jewelry chain of a type having a plurality of links.Each link resembles a fish hook and has a shank with one end thereofhaving a barbed hook thereon and an opposite end thereof having aneyelet thereon which engages the barbed hook of an adjacent link. Theeyelet lies in a first plane and the shank and barbed hook lie in asecond plane that is perpendicular to the first plane. The improvementsinclude the barbed hook not touching the shank, the eyelet being sosized so as not to allow the barbed hook of an adjacent link to passtherethrough, except for the eyelet of one terminal link being largeenough to allow the barbed hook of the other terminal link toselectively disengage therefrom, and the second plane being arcuate soas to allow each link to lie flat on the skin of the user.

[0019] It is apparent that numerous innovations for jewelry chains havebeen provided in the prior art that are adapted to be used. Furthermore,even though these innovations may be suitable for the specificindividual purposes to which they address, they would not be suitablefor the purposes of the present invention as heretofore described.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0020] ACCORDINGLY, AN OBJECT of the present invention is to provide amulti-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torsogarment that avoids the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0021] ANOTHER OBJECT of the present invention is to provide amulti-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torsogarment that is simple to use.

[0022] STILL ANOTHER OBJECT of the present invention is to provide amulti-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torsogarment that can readily be moved from one garment to another withoutrequiring puncturing of the garment with pins, posts, buttons or whichotherwise require modification of the garment.

[0023] YET ANOTHER OBJECT of the present invention is to provide amulti-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torsogarment that is advantageously adjustable along its length in order topermit the person wearing the garment to adjust the height of thegarment relative to the wearer's shoulders or neck.

[0024] STILL YET ANOTHER OBJECT of the present invention is to provide amulti-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torsogarment that does not result in unsightly overlap of the ornamentallengths of jewelry.

[0025] YET STILL ANOTHER OBJECT of the present invention is to provide amulti-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torsogarment that does not have excess lengths positioned between the garmentand the body of the person which causes discomfort to the person andmars the appearance of the garment.

[0026] BRIEFLY STATED, STILL ANOTHER OBJECT of the present invention isto provide a multi-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting anupper torso garment, such as bras, bathing suits, bikini tops, halters,strapless dresses, dresses with thin straps, strapless tops, tops withthin straps, and the like. The jewelry chain comprises a pair of primaryclasps replaceably attached to the pair of terminal ends of the jewelrychain, respectively, and when in place, attach the jewelry chain to theupper torso garment without piercing/puncturing or otherwise damagingthe upper torso garment. The jewelry chain further comprises multiplepairs of secondary clasps replaceably attached to the pair of primaryclasps at the terminal ends of the chain, respectively, when used, andfurther replaceably attached to a plurality of chain lengths and to eachother end-to-end, respectively, so as to allow at least one chain lengthto be removed and form at least one removed chain length for lengthadjustment of the chain, for use with different upper torso garments orby different people. The removal of one or more chain lengths eliminatesexcess chain from having to overlap or be concealed between the uppertorso garment and the body of the person which causes discomfort to theperson or deforms the appearance of the outfit. Further, the removedchain length can be utilized as other chain jewelry, such as necklaces,bracelets, ankle bracelets, and the like, to coordinate with andaccessorize the wearer and her outfits.

[0027] The novel features which are considered characteristic of thepresent invention are set forth in the appended claims. The inventionitself, however, both as to its construction and its method ofoperation, together with additional objects and advantages thereof, willbe best understood from the following description of the specificembodiments when read and understood in connection with the accompanyingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The figures of the drawings are briefly described as follows:

[0029]FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of the multi-functionjewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torso garment of thepresent invention supporting the upper torso garment;

[0030]FIG. 2 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the areagenerally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 2 in FIG. 1of the multi-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an uppertorso garment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1, engaging a frontportion of the upper torso garment;

[0031]FIG. 3 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the areagenerally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 3 in FIG. 1of the multi-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an uppertorso garment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1, engaging a rearportion of the upper torso garment;

[0032]FIG. 4 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the areagenerally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 4 in FIG. 1of the multi-function jewelry chain of the present invention shown inFIG. 1;

[0033]FIG. 5 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the areagenerally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 5 in FIG. 4of a chain length of the multi-function jewelry chain primarily forsupporting an upper torso garment of the present invention shown in FIG.4;

[0034]FIG. 6 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the areagenerally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 6 in FIG. 4of the chain length with a secondary clasp on one end thereof of themulti-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torsogarment of the present invention shown in FIG. 4;

[0035]FIG. 7 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the areagenerally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 7 in FIG. 4of a chain length with a secondary clasp on each end thereof of themulti-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torsogarment of the present invention shown in FIG. 4;

[0036]FIG. 8 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the areagenerally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 8 in FIG. 4of a chain length with a secondary clasp on one end thereof engaging oneend of an adjacent chain length of the multi-function jewelry chainprimarily for supporting an upper torso garment of the present inventionshown in FIG. 4;

[0037]FIG. 9 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the areagenerally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 9 in FIG. 4of a primary clasp of the multi-function jewelry chain primarily forsupporting an upper torso garment of the present invention shown in FIG.4;

[0038]FIG. 10 is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the areagenerally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 10 in FIG. 4of a chain length with a primary clasp on one end thereof of themulti-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torsogarment of the present invention shown in FIG. 4;

[0039]FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic perspective view of one configuration inwhich the multi-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an uppertorso garment of the present invention shown in FIG. 4, supports theupper torso garment;

[0040]FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic perspective view of anotherconfiguration in which the multi-function jewelry chain primarily forsupporting an upper torso garment of the present invention shown in FIG.4, supports the upper torso garment;

[0041]FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic perspective view of still anotherconfiguration in which the multi-function jewelry chain primarily forsupporting an upper torso garment of the present invention shown in FIG.4, supports the upper torso garment;

[0042]FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a plurality of chainlengths including at least one removed chain length used as a belt;

[0043]FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a plurality of chainlengths including at least one removed chain length used as a necklace;

[0044]FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a plurality of chainlengths including at least one removed chain length donned as abracelet;

[0045]FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic perspective view of the area generallyenclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 17 in FIG. 16 of aplurality of chain lengths including at least one removed chain lengthformed into a bracelet;

[0046]FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a plurality of chainlengths including at least one removed chain length donned as an anklebracelet; and

[0047]FIG. 19 is a diagrammatic perspective view of the area generallyenclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 19 in FIG. 18 of aplurality of chain lengths including at least one removed chain lengthformed into an ankle bracelet.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS UTILIZED IN THE DRAWING

[0048]20 multi-function jewelry chain of present invention primarily forsupporting upper torso garment 22

[0049]22 upper torso garment

[0050]23 pair of terminal ends

[0051]24 plurality of chain lengths

[0052]26 pair of primary clasps for releasably attaching multi-functionjewelry chain 20 to upper torso garment 22 without puncturing orotherwise damaging upper torso garment 22

[0053]28 at least one pair of secondary clasps

[0054]30 pair of terminal ends of each chain length of plurality ofchain lengths 24

[0055]31 plurality of links of each chain length of plurality of chainlengths 24

[0056]32 rectilinear loops of pair of terminal ends 30 of each chainlength of plurality of chain lengths 24

[0057]34 first leg of each secondary clasp of at least one pair ofsecondary clasps 28

[0058]36 second leg of each secondary clasp of at least one pair ofsecondary clasps 28

[0059]38 stationary jaw of each primary clasp of pair of primary clasps26

[0060]40 movable jaw of each primary clasp of pair of primary clasps 26

[0061]42 spring of each primary clasp of pair of primary clasps 26

[0062]44 finger grip of each primary clasp of pair of primary clasps 26

[0063]46 loop of each primary clasp of pair of primary clasps 26

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0064] Referring now to the figures, in which like numerals indicatelike parts, and particularly to FIGS. 1-3, which are, respectively, adiagrammatic perspective view of the multi-function jewelry chainprimarily for supporting an upper torso garment of the present inventionsupporting the upper torso garment, an enlarged diagrammatic perspectiveview of the area generally enclosed by the dotted curve identified byARROW 2 in FIG. 1 of the multi-function jewelry chain primarily forsupporting an upper torso garment of the present invention shown in FIG.1 engaging a front portion of the upper torso garment, and an enlargeddiagrammatic perspective view of the area generally enclosed by thedotted curve identified by ARROW 3 in FIG. 1 of the multi-functionjewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torso garment of thepresent invention shown in FIG. 1 engaging a rear portion of the uppertorso garment, the multi-function jewelry chain of the present inventionis shown generally at 20 primarily for supporting an upper torso garment22, such as bras, bathing suits, bikini tops, halters, straplessdresses, dresses with thin straps, strapless tops, tops with thinstraps, and the like.

[0065] The chain 20 comprises at least one chain length of costumejewelry, at least one precious metal, at least one decorative stone, atleast one semi-precious metal, at least one precious gem, at least onesemi-precious gem, at least one artificial gem, at least one pearl, atleast one ornamental clip, at least one diamond, at least one bead, andcombinations thereof, in various designs, shapes, colors, andcombinations thereof. The chain 20 can also comprise at least one lengthof material or fabric such as satin, silk, velvet, etc.

[0066] The overall configuration of the multi-function jewelry chain 20can best be seen in FIG. 4, which is an enlarged diagrammaticperspective view of the area generally enclosed by the dotted curveidentified by ARROW 4 in FIG. 1 of the multi-function jewelry chain ofthe present invention shown in FIG. 1, and as such, will be discussedwith reference thereto.

[0067] The multi-function jewelry chain 20 has a pair of terminal ends23, and comprises a plurality of chain lengths 24, a pair of primaryclasps 26, and multiple secondary clasps 28. The plurality of chainlengths 24 are separate from, and independent of, each other, and theycan either be the same length or vary in length from chain segment tochain segment.

[0068] The pair of primary clasps 26 are replaceably attached to thepair of terminal ends 23 of the multi-function jewelry chain 20,respectively, and when in place, attach the multi-function jewelry chain20 to the upper torso garment 22 without piercing/puncturing orotherwise damaging the upper torso garment 22.

[0069] The at least one pair of secondary clasps 28 replaceably attachthe pair of primary clasps 26 to the pair of terminal ends 23 of themulti-function jewelry chain 20, respectively, when used. Further,additional secondary clasps 28 replaceably attach the plurality of chainlengths 24 to each other end-to-end, respectively, so as to allow atleast one chain length 24 to be removed and form at least one removedchain length 24, for length adjustment of the multi-function jewelrychain 20, for use with different upper torso garments 22, or bydifferent people or for different purposes. This eliminates excess chainfrom having to overlap or be concealed between the upper torso garment22 and the body of the person which causes discomfort to the person ordeforms the appearance of the garment and with the at least one removedchain length 24 being utilized as other chain jewelry.

[0070] The specific configuration of each chain length 24 can best beseen in FIG. 5, which is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view ofthe area generally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 5 inFIG. 4 of a chain length of the multi-function jewelry chain, primarilyfor supporting an upper torso garment of the present invention shown inFIG. 4, and as such, will be discussed with reference thereto.

[0071] Each chain length 24 comprises a pair of terminal ends 30, and aplurality of links 31. The plurality of links 31 of each chain length 24are axially movably and flexibly attached to each other end-to-end so asto allow each chain length 24 to conform to the body part on which it isplaced. The pair of terminal ends 30 of each chain length 24 are formedas loops 32.

[0072] The specific configuration of each secondary clasp 28 and itsinterface with at least one chain length 24 can best be seen in FIGS.6-8, which are, respectively, an enlarged diagrammatic perspective viewof the area generally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 6in FIG. 4 of a chain length with a secondary clasp on one end thereof ofthe multi-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torsogarment of the present invention shown in FIG. 4, an enlargeddiagrammatic perspective view of the area generally enclosed by thedotted curve identified by ARROW 7 in FIG. 4 of a chain length with asecondary clasp on each end thereof of the multi-function jewelry chainprimarily for supporting an upper torso garment of the present inventionshown in FIG. 4, and an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view of thearea generally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 8 inFIG. 4 of a chain length with a secondary clasp on one end thereofengaging one end of an adjacent chain length of the multi-functionjewelry chain primarily for supporting an upper torso garment of thepresent invention shown in FIG. 4, and as such, will be discussed withreference thereto.

[0073] Each secondary clasp 28 comprises a first leg 34 and a second leg36. The first leg 34 of the secondary clasp 28 pivotally engages eitherone loop 32 of the chain length 24 as shown in FIG. 6 or both loops 32of the chain length 24 as shown in FIG. 7. The second leg 36 of thesecondary clasp 28 is pivotally attached to the first leg 34 thereof.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 8, the second leg 36 of the secondary clasp 28on a terminal end 30 of one chain length 24 passes through the loop 32on a terminal end 30 of an adjacent chain length 24 and pivots backtowards, and frictionally/compressibly engages, the first leg 34thereof, and in doing so, captures the loop 32 on the terminal end 30 ofthe adjacent chain length 24, so as to releasably attach the one chainlength 24 to the adjacent chain length 24 when the secondary clasp 28 isused to replaceably attach chain lengths 24, together end-to-end.

[0075] It must be noted that the secondary clasp 28 is the preferredclasp to use in the multi-function jewelry chain, as it provides for themost elegant appearance. However, any other jewelry clasp can be used aswell, provided it does not detract from the ability to remove and addchain segments.

[0076] The specific configuration of each primary clasp 26 can best beseen in FIG. 9, which is an enlarged diagrammatic perspective view ofthe area generally enclosed by the dotted curve identified by ARROW 9 inFIG. 4 of a primary clasp of the multi-function jewelry chain primarilyfor supporting an upper torso garment of the present invention shown inFIG. 4, and as such, will be discussed with reference thereto.

[0077] Each primary clasp 26 comprises a stationary jaw 38, a movablejaw 40, a spring 42, a finger grip 44, and a loop 46. The movable jaw 40of the primary clasp 26 is pivotally attached to the stationary jaw 38thereof, and is biased theretowards by the spring 42 thereof. The fingergrip 44 of the primary clasp 26 extends rearwardly from the movable jaw40 thereof, and the loop 46 of the primary clasp 26 extends rearwardlyfrom the stationary jaw 38 thereof.

[0078] The interface of a primary clasp 26 with a chain length 24 by wayof a secondary clasp 28 can best be seen in FIG. 10, which is anenlarged diagrammatic perspective view of the area generally enclosed bythe dotted curve identified by ARROW 10 in FIG. 4 of a chain length witha primary clasp on one end thereof of the multi-function jewelry chainprimarily for supporting an upper torso garment of the present inventionshown in FIG. 4, and as such, will be discussed with reference thereto.

[0079] The second leg 36 of the secondary clasp 28 on a terminal end 30of a chain length 24 passes through the loop 46 of the primary clasp 26and pivots back towards, and frictionally/compressingly engages, thefirst leg 34 thereof capturing the loop 46 of the primary clasp 26, andin doing so, releasably attaches the primary clasp 26 to the chainlength 24 when the secondary clasp 28 is used to replaceably attach theprimary clasp 26 to the chain length 24.

[0080] It is noted that the primary clasp 26 is the preferred clasp touse in the multi-function jewelry chain, as it provides for the mostelegant appearance. However, any other clasp, or clasp type or closuretype mechanism can be used as well, provided it does not detract fromthe user's ability to remove and transfer the jewelry chain from garmentto garment. Or in the alternative the primary clasp 26 can be removedaltogether and the secondary clasp 28 used alone, so long as a hook typemechanism attached to the garment for the latching of said secondaryclasp 28. It is understood from the description of the components ofmulti-function jewelry chain set forth above that the various chainsegments and the respective clasps can be assembled in any number ofways to both hold up the garment and enhance the overall appearance ofthe garment. In fact, the chain 20 can support the upper torso garment22 in a number of different configurations, for example:

[0081] As shown in FIG. 11, which is a diagrammatic perspective view ofone configuration in which the multi-function jewelry chain primarilyfor supporting an upper torso garment of the present invention shown inFIG. 4 supports the upper torso garment, one terminal end 23 of onechain 20 is attached to one terminal end 23 of an adjacent chain 20 by asecondary clasp 28, and suspended from around the neck of the wearerover the front of the wearer, with the other terminal end 23 of the onechain 20 replaceably attached to the front of the upper torso garment 22by a primary clasp 26 and the other terminal end 23 of the adjacentchain 20 replaceably attached to the front of the upper torso garment 22by another primary clasp 26 so as to form a halter.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 12, which is a diagrammatic perspective view ofanother configuration in which the multi-function jewelry chainprimarily for supporting an upper torso garment of the present inventionshown in FIG. 4 supports the upper torso garment, one terminal end 23 ofone chain 20 is attached to the front of the upper torso garment 22 by aprimary clasp 26, and the other terminal end 23 of the one chain 20 isattached to the rear of the upper torso garment 22 by another primaryclasp 26 so as to form a first shoulder strap; one terminal end 23 ofanother chain 20 is attached to the front of the upper torso garment 22by a primary clasp 26, and the other terminal end 23 of the anotherchain 20 is attached to the rear of the upper torso garment 22 byanother primary clasp 26 so as to form a second shoulder strap; aterminal end 30 of a first chain length 24 is attached to the one chain20 by a secondary clasp 28 with the first chain length 24 extendingtransversely across the back of the wearer to the another chain 20 wherethe other terminal end 30 of the first chain length 24 is attached tothe another chain 20 by another secondary clasp 28; and a terminal end30 of a second chain length 24 is attached to the one chain 20 byanother secondary clasp 28 with the second chain length 24 extendingtransversely across the back of the wearer below the first chain length24 to the another chain 20 where the other terminal end 30 of the secondchain length 24 is attached to the another chain 20 by another secondaryclasp 28.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 13, which is a diagrammatic perspective view ofstill another configuration in which the multi-function jewelry chainprimarily for supporting an upper torso garment of the present inventionshown in FIG. 4 supports the upper torso garment, one terminal end 23 ofone chain 20 is attached to the front of the upper torso garment 22 by aprimary clasp 26, and the other terminal end 23 of the one chain 20 isattached to the rear of the upper torso garment 22 by another primaryclasp 26 so as to form a first shoulder strap; one terminal end 23 ofanother chain 20 is attached to the front of the upper torso garment 22by a primary clasp 26, and the other terminal end 23 of the anotherchain 20 is attached to an intermediate point of the one chain 20 on theback of the wearer by a secondary clasp 28 so as to form a secondshoulder strap and a Y-configuration along the back of the wearer.

[0084] A plurality of chain lengths 24 including the at least oneremoved chain length 24 are used for the other chain jewelry, forexample:

[0085] As shown in FIG. 14, which is a diagrammatic perspective view ofa plurality of chain lengths including at least one removed chain lengthused as a belt, a plurality of chain lengths 24 including the at leastone removed chain length 24 are attached to each other end-to-end bysecondary clasps 28, respectively, the free terminal ends 23 of a pairof terminal chain lengths 24 have secondary clasps 28 thereon,respectively, with the secondary clasp 28 on the free terminal end 23 ofone terminal chain length 24 forming a buckle attached to anintermediate point along a chain length 24 so as to form a loop allowinga belt to be formed with at least one chain length 24 dangling free.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 16-19, which are, respectively, a diagrammaticperspective view of a plurality of chain lengths including at least oneremoved chain length donned as a bracelet, a diagrammatic perspectiveview of the area generally enclosed by the dotted curve identified byARROW 17 in FIG. 16 of a plurality of chain lengths including at leastone removed chain length formed into a bracelet, a diagrammaticperspective view of a plurality of chain lengths including at least oneremoved chain length donned as an ankle bracelet, and a diagrammaticperspective view of the area generally enclosed by the dotted curveidentified by ARROW 19 in FIG. 18 of a plurality of chain lengthsincluding at least one removed chain length formed into an anklebracelet, a plurality of chain lengths 24 including the at least oneremoved chain length 24 are attached to each other end-to-end bysecondary clasps 28 to form a closed loop for forming a necklace, abracelet, an ankle bracelet, and the like.

[0087] It is clear, therefore, from the descriptions set forth abovethat the removal and/or addition of chain segments from the decorativemulti-function jewelry chain as a result of the structure andconfiguration of the chain's components, not only provides the user theability to adjust for the length of the support of the upper torsogarment, but also provides the user with the freedom and unfetteredcapability to further enhance the appearance of the garment with myriadpossibilities limited only by the user's imagination; and all withoutdiscomfort.

[0088] It will be understood that each of the elements described above,or two or more together, may also find a useful application in othertypes of constructions differing from the types described above.

[0089] While the invention has been illustrated and described asembodied in a multi-function jewelry chain primarily for supporting anupper torso garment, however, it is not limited to the details shown,since it will be understood that various omissions, modifications,substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the deviceillustrated and its operation can be made by those skilled in the artwithout departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention.

[0090] Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal thegist of the present invention that others can, by applying currentknowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omittingfeatures that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitutecharacteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A multi-function jewelry chain primarilyfor supporting an upper torso garment, having a pair of terminal endsand comprising: a) a plurality of chain lengths; b) a pair of primaryclasps; and c) multiple pairs of secondary clasps; wherein saidplurality of chain lengths are separate from, and independent of, eachother; wherein said pair of primary clasps are replaceably attached tosaid pair of terminal ends of said multi-function jewelry chain,respectively, and when in place, attach said multi-function jewelrychain to the upper torso garment without piercing/puncturing orotherwise damaging the upper torso garment; and wherein said secondaryclasps replaceably attach said pair of primary clasps to said pair ofterminal ends of said multi-function jewelry chain, respectively, whenused, and further replaceably attach said plurality of chain lengths toeach other end-to-end, respectively, so as to allow at least one chainlength to be removed and form at least one removed chain length oradded, for length adjustment of said multi-function jewelry chain foruse with different upper torso garments, by different people fordifferent purposes.
 2. The chain as defined in claim 1, wherein saidchain comprises costume jewelry.
 3. The chain as defined in claim 1,wherein said chain comprises at least one precious metal.
 4. The chainas defined in claim 1, wherein said chain comprises at least onedecorative stone.
 5. The chain as defined in claim 1, wherein said chaincomprises at least one semi-precious metal.
 6. The chain as defined inclaim 1, wherein said chain comprises at least one precious gem.
 7. Thechain as defined in claim 1, wherein said chain comprises at least onesemi-precious gem.
 8. The chain as defined in claim 1, wherein saidchain comprises at least one artificial gem.
 9. The chain as defined inclaim 1, wherein said chain comprises at least one pearl.
 10. The chainas defined in claim 1, wherein said chain comprises at least oneornamental clip.
 11. The chain as defined in claim 1, wherein said chaincomprises at least one diamond.
 12. The chain as defined in claim 1,wherein said chain comprises at least one bead.
 13. The chain as definedin claim 1, wherein said chain comprises combinations of costumejewelry, at least one precious metal, at least one decorative stone, atleast one semi-precious metal, at least one precious gem, at least onesemi-precious gem, at least one artificial gem, at least one pearl, atleast one ornamental clip, at least one diamond, and at least one bead.14. The chain as defined in claim 1, wherein each chain length comprisesa plurality of links; and wherein said plurality of links of each chainlength are axially movably and flexibly attached to each otherend-to-end so as to allow each chain length to conform to the body parton which it is placed.
 15. The chain as defined in claim 1, wherein eachchain length has a pair of terminal ends; and wherein said pair ofterminal ends of each chain length are formed as rectilinear loops. 16.The chain as defined in claim 15, wherein each secondary clasp comprisesa first leg; wherein each secondary clasp comprises a second leg; andwherein said second leg of said secondary clasp is pivotally attached tosaid first leg thereof.
 17. The chain as defined in claim 16, whereinsaid first leg of said secondary clasp pivotally engages either one loopof said chain length or both loops of said chain length; and whereinsaid second leg of said secondary clasp on a terminal end of one chainlength passes through said loop on a terminal end of an adjacent chainlength and pivots back towards, and frictionally/compressibly engages,said first leg thereof, and in doing so, captures said loop on saidterminal end of said adjacent chain length so as to releasably attachsaid one chain length to said adjacent chain length when said secondaryclasp is used to replaceably attach chain lengths together end-to-end.18. The chain as defined in claim 16, wherein each primary claspcomprises a stationary jaw; wherein each primary clasp comprises amovable jaw; wherein each primary clasp comprises a spring; wherein eachprimary clasp comprises a finger grip; wherein each primary claspcomprises a loop; wherein said movable jaw of said primary clasp ispivotally attached to said stationary jaw thereof, and is biasedtheretowards by said spring thereof; wherein said finger grip of saidprimary clasp extends rearwardly from said movable jaw thereof; andwherein said loop of said primary clasp extends rearwardly from saidstationary jaw thereof.
 19. The chain as defined in claim 18, whereinsaid second leg of said secondary clasp on a terminal end of a chainlength passes through said loop of said primary clasp and pivots backtowards, and frictionally/compressingly engages, said first leg thereofcapturing said loop of said primary clasp, and in doing so, releasablyattaches said primary clasp to said chain length when said secondaryclasp is used to replaceably attach said primary clasp to said chainlength.
 20. The chain as defined in claim 1, wherein one terminal end ofone chain is attached to one terminal end of an adjacent chain by asecondary clasp, and suspended from around the neck of the wearer overthe front of the wearer; and wherein the other terminal end of said onechain is replaceably attached to the front of the upper torso garment bya primary clasp and the other terminal end of said adjacent chain isreplaceably attached to the front of the upper torso garment by anotherprimary clasp so as to form a halter.
 21. The chain as defined in claim15, wherein said one terminal end of one chain is attached to the frontof the upper torso garment by a primary clasp and the other terminal endof said one chain is attached to the rear of the upper torso garment byanother primary clasp so as to form a first shoulder strap; wherein oneterminal end of another chain is attached to the front of the uppertorso garment by a primary clasp and the other terminal end of saidanother chain is attached to the rear of the upper torso garment byanother primary clasp so as to form a second shoulder strap; wherein aterminal end of a first chain length is attached to said one chain by asecondary clasp with said first chain length extending transverselyacross the back of the wearer to said another chain where the otherterminal end of said first chain length is attached to said anotherchain by another secondary clasp; and wherein a terminal end of a secondchain length is attached to said one chain by another secondary claspwith said second chain length extending transversely across the back ofthe wearer below said first chain length to said another chain where theother terminal end of said second chain length is attached to saidanother chain by another secondary clasp.
 22. The chain as defined inclaim 1, wherein one terminal end of one chain is attached to the frontof the upper torso garment by a primary clasp and the other terminal endof said one chain is attached to the rear of the upper torso garment byanother primary clasp so as to form a first shoulder strap; and whereinone terminal end of another chain is attached to the front of the uppertorso garment by a primary clasp and the other terminal end of saidanother chain is attached to an intermediate point of said one chain onthe back of the wearer by a secondary clasp so as to form a secondshoulder strap and a Y-configuration along the back of the wearer. 23.The chain as defined in claim 1, wherein a plurality of chain lengthsincluding the at least one removed chain length are attached to eachother end-to-end by secondary clasps; wherein free terminal ends of apair of terminal chain lengths have secondary clasps thereon,respectively; and wherein said secondary clasp on said free terminal endof one terminal chain length forms a buckle attached to an intermediatepoint along a chain length so as to form a loop allowing a belt to beformed with at least one chain length dangling free.
 24. The chain asdefined in claim 1, wherein a plurality of chain lengths including saidat least one removed chain length are attached to each other end-to-endby secondary clasps to form a closed loop for forming a necklace, abracelet, or an ankle bracelet.